Nightjar? - Ingledene

["Philip Veerman" <>]

Hi Marnix,

 

There appears to be a lot of Diamond Firetails about this year (nothing to complain about there) and you would certainly expect them there (well I would). As for a Owlet-Nightjar or a White-throated Nightjar. There is big size difference, though in a short view, that can be hard to tell. Nightjars roost on the ground whereas Owlet-Nightjars roost in tree hollows. Their flight is quite different too. A Nightjar flies rather hawk-like, whereas an Owlet-Nightjar flies more like a Willie Wagtail (these are loose comparisons). You wouldn't see wing spots on a White-throated Nightjar unless it was a quite good look. I doubt that we know anywhere near enough to be sure of whether Nightjars migrate away from here, although I think most records are in summer time. 

 

Philip